Overview

Antigua is the main population centre and the focus for business and tourism. Relatively-undeveloped Barbuda is home to smaller, exclusive resorts and a sanctuary for frigate birds.

Tourism is the islands' biggest source of income

But a reliance on tourism makes the nation vulnerable to downturns in the world market. Internet gambling sites based in the country are an alternative source of revenue. However, Antigua and the US have been locked in a trade dispute over American restrictions on online gaming.

For decades Antigua and Barbuda's politics was dominated by the Bird family, with Vere Bird being the country's prime minister from independence in 1981 until 1994, when he was succeeded by his son, Lester, who spent a decade in office.

Underlying this stability was a succession of scandals, including allegations of corruption. The Bird family was also accused of abuse of authority.

Antigua and Barbuda, once described by the US as a centre for money laundering, was recognised by an international task force in 2001 as being "fully cooperative" in the fight against the activity.

In 2009, the country's economy - and the reputation of its financial regulatory system - was rocked by news that its single biggest investor, Texan billionaire Allen Stanford, had been charged with massive fraud by the US authorities.

Media

Dailies and weeklies carry a range of opinions, including criticism of the government.

The first private radio station, Observer Radio, launched in 2001 after a five-year struggle to get a licence. BBC World Service radio broadcasts on 89.1 FM.

There were 65,000 internet users by mid-2009 (Internetworldstats). Antigua, which licenses online gambling companies, has waged a battle in the World Trade Organization over US government moves against offshore betting sites.

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